Antibullying message shared through music at Stewart Manor

Stewart Manor School students in grades 3-6 listened to meaningful songs and positive messages when Meredith O’Connor, an antibullying icon, visited their school.

Ms. O’Connor, a Long Island native and singer, described her own experiences of being bullied and encouraged students to be proud of what makes them different. Ms. O’Connor, who visits schools around the world, shared that she hears from thousands of students that they feel alone. She then reminded students that they aren’t alone and no matter how they’re feeling, things will get better. She also asked them to be upstanders when they see someone being bullied and to be kind to each other. Through her songs, “Just the Thing,” “The Game” and others, O’Connor let students know they are not to blame for others’ actions and to love themselves.

School social worker Robert Lennihan and psychologist Dr. Karen Green invited Ms. O’Connor to visit the students as part of the school’s character education program. Since September, students have taken part in activities that highlight friendship, respect, tolerance and diversity.

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Stewart Manor School students were visited by antibullying icon Meredith O’Connor.